Road Trip from Berkeley Township, NJ to Carolina Shores, NC: The Best Places to See on the Way
Are you planning a road trip from Berkeley Township, New Jersey to Carolina Shores, North Carolina, and wondering what sights are worth stopping for on the way? Whether you're looking for natural wonders or history and culture, this route has plenty of attractions to offer. From charming small towns to scenic overlooks and historic sites, the drive down the East Coast has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to see when taking this route.
1. Cape May, NJ
As you head south out of Berkeley Township, make a pitstop in Cape May, NJ. This charming Victorian town on the southern tip of New Jersey has a rich maritime and architectural history. Its historic district is on the National Register of Historic Places and showcases a variety of architectural styles, including Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, and Italianate. You can walk or bike along scenic Beach Avenue, visit the Cape May Lighthouse, or take a tour of the Emlen Physick Estate, a beautifully restored Victorian mansion. If you have time, take a ferry to Cape May Point and see the natural beauty of its beaches and bird watching opportunities.
2. Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, VA
If you're looking for a scenic drive and a unique engineering feat, take Route 13 across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. This 23-mile span connects Virginia's Eastern Shore with the mainland and goes over and through the Chesapeake Bay and its islands. Along the way, you'll see stunning views of the water, the historic Cape Charles lighthouse, and the world's largest man-made island called the Bay Island. You can even pull over at one of the rest areas to learn more about the bridge-tunnel and take in the views.
3. Colonial Williamsburg, VA
For history buffs, stop by Colonial Williamsburg, VA, a living history museum that recreates life in a colonial American town from the 18th century. Visitors can watch costumed interpreters bring the past to life by demonstrating crafts, cooking, and social customs. You can also visit the historic buildings, such as the Governor's Palace, the Capitol building, and the Peyton Randolph House. If you have more time, take a tour of Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in America, or visit the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.
4. Outer Banks, NC
The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a stretch of barrier islands known for its beautiful beaches, natural beauty, and historic landmarks. If you're looking for a relaxing beach day, stop by Cape Hatteras National Seashore or Nags Head Beach, both known for their wide sandy beaches and excellent surf conditions. You can also visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, where Orville and Wilbur Wright made their historic first flight in 1903. If you're interested in maritime history, visit the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse or the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, which showcases the region's shipwreck history.
5. Wilmington, NC
Wilmington, NC, is a historic port city with a mix of antebellum architecture, graceful gardens, and colorful riverfront development. You can explore the historic district, where you'll find notable sites such as the Bellamy Mansion, the Burgwin-Wright House, and the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial. Stroll along the Riverwalk, lined with restaurants, shops, and galleries, or take a scenic boat tour down the Cape Fear River to learn more about the city's maritime heritage. Wilmington is also a popular film location, and you'll see many spots that have appeared in movies and TV shows.
Conclusion
If you're planning a road trip from Berkeley Township, New Jersey to Carolina Shores, North Carolina, there are plenty of great places to see and explore along the way. From charming small towns to natural wonders and historic landmarks, this route has something for everyone. Be sure to make stops in Cape May, NJ, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, Colonial Williamsburg, the Outer Banks of NC, and Wilmington, NC. Pack a camera, some snacks, and hit the open road!